During the Cape Summer, Silver Host (by Silvano) was flagged up as a most promising stayer by trainer, Justin Snaith. The very smart gelding is now making the expected progress, taking out the Track and Ball Derby at Scottsville over the weekend, earning a figure of 104, with the promise of more to come.
He was chased to the line by Dream Destiny (s/s 103) who belied his meagre merit rating of 73 to massively outran his odds, with original favourite Pamushana’s Pride (s/s 101) clocking in third. This was Silver Host’s fifth win and second at Grade 3 level. He remains worth following during the KZN season.
Keep on Dancing (s/s 101) reprised her winning effort in the East Coast Cup when coming out best in the Track and Ball Oaks over 2400m. She too is by Silvano and has really been on a roll winning five of her last six starts. Her “open” Oaks victory counts as a Grade 2 success. Places were filled by Electric Surge, Silva Magic and Mama Pyjama who attained 99’s.
Best figure on the day went to Vernichey – 106. She proved too quick for Pinnacle Stakes rivals in a dominant display over the short cuts. This daughter of Vercingetorix has won at G3 class, placed recently in a G1’ at the course and had no trouble spitting out lesser opposition this time when heavily punted favourite.
Thoroughbreds often produce peak efforts between their 11th and 15th starts so Vernichey is now in the prime of her career and can run an even bigger number than this pretty soon. She is another to add to Horse Watch lists.